What Makes a Great Teacher? Finally, We’ve Got Some Answers

According to the Gates Foundation study, students have a place in teacher ratings. (Photo: PhotoAlto/Michele Constantini)

The debate over how teachers should be evaluated has heated up in the last year.

Last fall in Chicago, contention over whether student test scores should be used to rate teachers was at the center of the teachers’ strike. This month, the issue could cause New York City schools to lose $250 million in state funding.

The union and the district have until January 17 to agree on an evaluation system.

While opinions on the best way to go about this vary, a new Gates Foundation study may provide some answers.

The Gates Foundation says that effective teaching can be measured, and they…